Navajo Sterling Black Onyx .8" Bar Necklace

Sterling silver naturally darkens over time, and many pieces are finished with a light patina to enhance their character. To gently remove any tarnish or patina, use a soft polishing cloth—never solvents, commercial cleaners, or steam. Keep jewelry completely dry: remove rings before washing hands, using hand sanitizer, or applying lotions, and avoid any liquid contact (water, oils, perfumes). Moisture can expand the sawdust setting in Native American inlay work, loosening or displacing stones. Also avoid heat and harsh chemicals (chlorine, ammonia, household cleaners). For storage, keep each piece in a cool, dry place—ideally inside an airtight anti-tarnish bag or a soft cloth pouch—and store items separately to prevent scratching.

A “STERLING” or “925” stamp tells you that the maker crafted the piece from 92.5% pure silver mixed with 7.5% alloy for extra strength, ensuring you get genuine, durable sterling silver often used in Native jewelry.

Choosing the right necklace length depends on your style, neckline, and where you want the necklace to sit. A 14–16 inch necklace fits like a choker and sits snugly around the neck, perfect for layering or open necklines. An 18 inch necklace, often called "princess length," rests at the collarbone and is the most popular and versatile option for everyday wear. A 20–24 inch necklace falls just below the collarbone or at the top of the bust. This length works well over higher necklines or for a more noticeable statement piece. Longer styles, like 28–36 inch "opera length" necklaces, hang below the bust and can be worn as a single strand or doubled up for a layered effect. Necklaces over 36 inches, often called "rope length," are great for dramatic looks and can be styled in multiple creative ways. To find the best fit, use a measuring tape or string to test how each length looks on you before purchasing.

Onyx is a smooth, black gemstone often used in Native American jewelry for its bold, elegant look. It is a form of chalcedony, a type of quartz, and is valued for its deep color and glossy finish. Onyx is commonly set in sterling silver and used in rings, earrings, and pendants to create striking contrast with brighter stones like turquoise or coral. Its sleek, timeless appearance adds a touch of sophistication to traditional handcrafted designs.